Grenache Class

Where did it originate?

Evidence suggests that Grenache most likely originated in Catalonia, Spain. It first began to spread around Europe under the Crown of Aragon in places such as Sardinia and Roussillon in southern France. There was even an early synonym for the vine, Tinto Aragonés which means Red of Aragon. It has varied names across the globe, for example in Sardinia it is called Cannonau, Rool in South Africa, and Garnacha in Spain.

Grenache in Australia

Grenache was one of the original varieties to be planted in Australia in the early 18th Century, and up until 1960 was one of the most widely planted grapes. Our climate and soil provide great growing conditions, similar to that of their Mediterranean origins. The “Great Vine Pull” changed the landscape for Grenache, however Australia still boasts some of the oldest vines in the world.

Grenache in the USA

In the 19th century Grenache impressed growers in the USA with its ability to withstand extreme terrain and climate and became widely planted within the San Joaquin Valley. It became a staple blending variety for pale sweet wines. In the early 20th century the “Rhone Rangers”, an American winemaking movement, focused their attention on premium Rhone style wines. As a result, Grenache was one of the first Vitis Vinifera wines to be successfully vinified in Washington.

Grenache in South Africa

Grenache Noir was discovered in the 1800’s, but this information was only verified in the 1900’s. Winemakers slowly started to realise the potential for making great Grenache by utilising their Mediterranean climate and the diverse typography of South African vineyards. With Grenache becoming a more popular variety, plantings steadily increased between 2011 and 2015 where there was a staggering 55% increase in plantings of Grenache (Rool).